Considering he's had the same foot problem over the last 2 years, and last year a hammy injury, and was on that same cardinal team that blew away the division before september, he still had the most AB's in his career. (592)

The only game he took off in September last year was a september 5th game against the DOdgers. He played the rest of the month, even with a 10+ game lead in the NL central.

He's more healthy going into this season then he was mid-season last year.

I think individual season awards and accolades, along with home field advantage is enough incentive for superstars to demand to play every day...regardless of the teams overrall record.

It is very unlikely st louis murders the central division this year anyway. (but thats just my opinion)

mtarail wrote:I've changed my opinion on this a few times, but right now I'd say Vladdy.

Pujols is incredible, but I don't want to draft a guy with injury concerns with the 1st pick. I know, I know...He battled the same injury all last year and look what he did? But the fact that he's complaining about it NOW, before spring training has started is a big red flag, IMO.

Agree with this. I'm in the Vlad camp right now.

When you're right no one remembers, when you're wrong no one forgets - NZF

mtarail wrote:I've changed my opinion on this a few times, but right now I'd say Vladdy.

Arod is awesome, but with all the depth at 3B I'd rather wait a few rounds and get one of those other studs.

Pujols is incredible, but I don't want to draft a guy with injury concerns with the 1st pick. I know, I know...He battled the same injury all last year and look what he did? But the fact that he's complaining about it NOW, before spring training has started is a big red flag, IMO.

I don't dig that reasoning, as OF is much deeper than 3B. I'm going with A-Rod.

[quote:4fef447375="Geek"]The odds of the AL MVP coming from the American League are looking pretty good.[/quote]